I wanted something very specific that is hard to find in a modern bike, I'm fascinated by the history of the MTB and I wanted something somewhat unique and with a "cool" factor. A Surly Long Haul Trucker frameset with 26" wheels would have gotten me pretty close, functionally, but it wouldn't be part of MTB history and it wouldn't be cool or unique.
I'm not a big fan of vintage components and as soon as I can get a rear wheel built, I'll add a modern drivetrain to it.
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